Signs You May Need Scaling and Root Planing
Recognizing the warning signs of gum disease helps you seek treatment before the condition worsens. You may benefit from scaling and root planing if you experience any of the following:
- Bleeding gums: Blood when brushing or flossing indicates inflammation and possible infection beneath the gumline.
- Persistent bad breath: Bacteria trapped in gum pockets produce odors that regular brushing can’t eliminate.
- Receding gums: Gum tissue pulling away from teeth exposes sensitive root surfaces and creates deeper pockets for bacteria to accumulate.
- Loose teeth: Advanced gum disease damages the bone supporting your teeth, causing them to shift or feel unstable.
- Deep gum pockets: Measurements of 4mm or greater during your dental exam suggest that periodontal disease has progressed beyond gingivitis.
Early intervention through periodontal maintenance prevents more serious complications. During your exam, our team measures pocket depths, checks for bleeding, and evaluates bone health to determine whether scaling and root planing will benefit you.
The Scaling and Root Planing Process
Understanding what happens during treatment helps ease any concerns you may have. Your procedure begins with a thorough examination to assess the extent of gum disease and identify areas requiring the most attention.
We administer local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Using specialized instruments and ultrasonic scalers, we carefully remove plaque and calculus from tooth surfaces and root areas. This process may require one visit or multiple appointments, depending on the number of treatment areas.
After scaling, we smooth the root surfaces to create an environment that allows your gums to heal and reattach. This smoothing also makes it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate in the future, reducing your risk of disease recurrence.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients experience minimal discomfort following scaling and root planing. Your gums may feel tender for a few days, and you might notice some sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. Over-the-counter pain relievers typically manage any discomfort effectively.
Proper home care accelerates healing and protects your results. Brush gently twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and resume flossing as soon as comfort allows. Rinsing with warm salt water several times daily reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for the first few days while your gums recover.
Most patients see improvement within a few weeks. Your gums should appear pinker, feel firmer, and bleed less during your oral care routine. Regular periodontic services help maintain these results and prevent disease from returning.
Why Lincoln Park Patients Choose Floss Lincoln Park for Periodontal Care
Accessible location and comprehensive care make managing gum disease simpler for Chicago residents. Patients from Wicker Park, West Town, Noble Square, and Bucktown appreciate the convenience of receiving specialized periodontal treatment close to home. Our Lincoln Park location puts expert dental care within easy reach, eliminating the need for long commutes when you need focused attention for your gum health.
Dr. Jouja and Dr. Silva bring extensive experience in treating periodontal disease at all stages. Dr. Silva’s background as a U.S. Army dentist provided her with training in managing complex dental conditions under diverse circumstances, expertise she now applies to civilian practice. Together, our doctors create personalized treatment plans that address your specific needs while respecting your comfort and schedule. Contact us today to schedule your periodontal evaluation and take the first step toward healthier gums.
